Family friendly

Embark on an extraordinary and thrilling aquatic adventure with coasteering near Bude. Suitable for various groups and ages, this action-packed experience promises excitement and awe.

Meet The Coasteering Team
Our team comprises certified and seasoned coasteering instructors who will lead you through the intertidal zone along Bude’s breathtaking coastline. Dive into expansive Cornish sea caves, discover wildlife-abundant rock pools, access hidden and secluded beaches around Bude, and take the plunge from one of our thrilling cliff jumping spots!

Discover The Coasteering Venues
While our primary venue is at Bossiney Bay near Bude, Cornwall, we also have access to multiple venues scattered along the stunning Cornwall coastline. Each location presents a variety of thrilling opportunities, explorations, and experiences in a spectacular environment. The choice of coasteering site will be based on the day’s conditions, making transportation essential for your coasteering adventure with us.

Craft Your Coasteering Experience
Tailored to suit the needs and abilities of each group, our coasteering sessions provide all necessary safety equipment. Just bring along old trainers that you don’t mind getting wet. Participants must be over 10 years old, capable of swimming 50 meters unaided, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Begin your session by meeting your coasteering guide near Bude, Cornwall. Once you’re ready, don a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, and helmet, and don’t forget those water-friendly shoes! Pay close attention to the coasteering safety briefing from the lead guide, who will provide insights into what to expect from your coasteering adventure. Familiarize yourself with the ‘do’s’ and ‘do not’s’ before immersing yourself in the beauty of the Cornish sea and exploring Bude’s enchanting coastline.

Minimum age for coasteering with us in Bude, Cornwall is 10 years old. All participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult during the activity.

While Lundy Island may only stretch three miles in length and half a mile wide, its compact size belies the wealth of experiences it offers day-trippers. With over 4,000 years of human history, brought to life by 42 scheduled monuments and a collection of listed buildings, the island is a treasure trove of heritage. Its remote location fosters a unique habitat for wildlife, often likened to the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. All of this unfolds against a backdrop of rugged natural beauty, creating a paradise for walkers.

Many day visitors embark on the journey to Lundy aboard the MS Oldenburg, the island’s own ferry and supply ship. This graceful vessel, built in 1958, retains much of its original charm with brass and wooden fittings. It boasts comfortable heated saloons, a bar, buffet, gift shop, and information desk. On sunny days, ample deck space invites passengers to enjoy the scenic views, and lucky travellers may even encounter a playful pod of dolphins trailing the ship.

The MS Oldenburg sails at least three times weekly from either Bideford or Ilfracombe, with the crossing taking approximately two hours each way. This allows between four and six hours to explore the island, depending on the chosen travel day.

Given the island’s abundance of attractions, it’s unlikely that a single visit will suffice. Weather often dictates the day’s activities—if the wind blows easterly, head west, and vice versa. And even on rainy days, there’s plenty to see and do in and around the Tavern.

Bodmin’s iconic Keep stands as a testament to Cornwall’s military history, boasting over 160 years of heritage as the former regimental headquarters. Today, it has transformed into a captivating museum, chronicling 300 years of military presence in Cornwall.

Step inside to discover a treasure trove of artifacts, from badges and weapons to regimental colours, each offering a glimpse into the storied past of Cornwall’s military legacy. Delve into the lives of ordinary soldiers who lived through extraordinary times, as their stories unfold through immersive exhibits and displays.

A visit to Bodmin Keep is an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Cornwall’s military heritage, offering insight into the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 12,000 items, the majority of which are proudly showcased for visitors to explore. Each artifact weaves a compelling narrative of battle and honours the courage and sacrifice of individual soldiers.

Among the treasures are numerous works of art that vividly depict tales of conflict, complemented by a remarkable display of over 80 uniforms spanning from Napoleonic times to the modern era. Visitors can also marvel at hundreds of medals bestowed upon brave individuals for their wartime heroism throughout history.

In addition to these remarkable artifacts, the collection includes a diverse array of sculptures, decorative art, and other fascinating memorabilia, offering a comprehensive journey through Cornwall’s military heritage. Immerse yourself in the stories of valour and resilience encapsulated within our museum’s unparalleled collection.

Dogs
Bodmin Keep welcomes furry friends to the museum as they are a dog-friendly attraction. Well-behaved dogs on a lead are warmly invited to accompany their owners during their visit. However, please note that entry for dogs is subject to discretion, particularly during busy periods. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both human and canine visitors, it’s recommend booking ahead.

Accessibility
The museum is spread across two floors, each accessed via a flight of stairs, unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available at this time. However, Bodmin Keep strive to ensure that all visitors can enjoy our exhibits comfortably. They provide seating in every gallery and stalls to stand on, allowing everyone to view items displayed in cabinets raised off the ground. The aim is to make your visit as inclusive and enjoyable as possible.

The Premier Karting Experience in Cornwall

Located along the breathtaking North Cornwall Coast between Newquay and Padstow, St. Eval Kart Circuit offers an exhilarating outdoor go-karting experience. Their expansive 1000m track is meticulously designed to accommodate racers of all skill levels, starting from 7 years old!
Designated sessions for various age groups, including 7–11-year-olds, teenagers and adults, and exclusive adult-only sessions, there’s something for everyone. And for the youngest enthusiasts, they provide a specially tailored circuit for 3 to 6-year-olds to enjoy their own thrilling adventure.
With the most extensive selection of karts in Cornwall, St. Eval Kart Circuit ensures there’s a kart to suit every age group. Their dedicated karts and tracks for each age bracket ensure an unparalleled karting experience for all participants.

Parsonage Farm, nestled in the heart of Devon, holds a century-long legacy within its fields. It serves as the backdrop to Michael Morpurgo’s renowned novel, War Horse, set amidst the picturesque parish of Iddesleigh.

This hidden gem of Devonian countryside boasts breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and verdant valleys, with Dartmoor standing majestically in the distance.

Come and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of War Horse Valley – explore its agricultural heritage, uncover the stories of its resilient inhabitants, and delve into the wartime narratives that echo through its landscapes.

Step into the 400-year-old cob barn and discover nine captivating exhibitions:

World War I Exhibition: Delve into the impact of the war on Devon and the crucial role of horses in the conflict.

Parson Jack Russell: Learn about the legacy of Parson Jack Russell, the pioneering breeder behind the iconic terrier breed.

Farms for City Children: Explore the charitable work of Michael Morpurgo and his wife Clare in founding Farms for City Children.

Michael Morpurgo’s Books: Dive into the enchanting world of Michael Morpurgo’s literary creations.

War Horse: Experience the timeless tale of Joey and Albert through the book, play, and film adaptations.

Local Parish History: Uncover the rich history of nearby parishes, steeped in tradition and community.

Antique Farming Methods: Journey back in time to discover the farming techniques of yesteryear.

Vintage Farm Machinery: Marvel at a collection of historical farm equipment, including century-old tractors and ploughs.

World War I Style Trench: Brace yourself for a journey into the trenches, complete with surprises along the way!

Meet the menagerie of animals:
Joey the Horse
Miniature Shetland Ponies
Sheep
The 5 Alpacas
Geese Gertie & Gregory
Chickens galore
Dotty the rabbit
Pigs
Ducks
not forgetting the goats Rosie, Custard and Maria!

All the family will enjoy the Warhorse Valley Country Farm Trail, a scenic half-mile walk that winds through the countryside. Take a tractor and trailer ride across the fields and back to the Warhorse Valley Tearoom, where you can indulge in Devonshire Cream Teas and mouthwatering cakes while soaking in the panoramic views.
With comfortable seating both indoors and outdoors, including disabled access, and convenient facilities like toilets and handwashing stations, War Horse Valley Country Park ensure a delightful visit for all their visitors.

Welcome to Bridge Bike Hire, established in 1983!

At Bridge Bike Hire, we extend a warm and friendly welcome to everyone, whether young, old, or four-legged! As the original cycle hire on the Camel Trail, we are conveniently located right at the beginning of the trail in Wadebridge. Our courtyard seamlessly connects to the Camel Trail, providing you with traffic-free access for your cycling adventure and avoiding the hustle and bustle of the busy road.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, and we offer optional reduced-rate hire starting from 2 pm during the Easter season. Additionally, there are some reduced rates available all day for everyone during the winter months. Join us at Bridge Bike Hire for a memorable cycling experience on the beautiful Camel Trail!

Our Bikes – 40 Years of Excellence

With nearly four decades of operation, Bridge Bike Hire is dedicated to providing an exceptional cycling experience on the Camel Trail. Each year, we meticulously source the most comfortable seats, the safest children’s trailers, and top-quality bikes. Our ongoing investment in equipment ensures that the trail is accessible to individuals of all abilities.

Our knowledgeable team is delighted to guide you in selecting the most suitable bike, catering to riders of all ages, including our four-legged friends! Every group receives a lock, a puncture repair kit, and our team is always ready to offer any assistance or advice you may need. Join us for a cycling adventure where comfort, safety, and enjoyment are our top priorities!

Bikes Available

Securing your bikes for your Camel Trail adventure is highly recommended, especially during school holidays. Child trailers, trailer bikes, tandems, dog trailers, and other specialized bikes are particularly popular and tend to get booked quickly. We have electric bikes, hybrids, mountation bikes and retro ladies bikes something for everyone.

Explore our “GO OUT LATE, STAY OUT LATE” option during the warmer months—a delightful alternative to a morning ride that lets you make the most of your day.

Doggies Come Too!

We believe in inclusivity at Bridge Bike Hire, and that includes your furry friends! Dogs are more than welcome to join the adventure on the Camel Trail with our specially adapted dog trailers. Equipped with a bottle of water and a dog bowl, dogs of all ages can now enjoy a day out with the whole family.

While dogs are permitted on the Camel Trail, it’s essential to adhere to the ‘Rules of the Camel Trail’ set by Cornwall Council, who manages the trail. According to these rules, dogs should be kept on leads at all times. We look forward to welcoming your canine companions for a delightful day on the Camel Trail!

Welcome to Ocean Soul Sauna, a mobile seaside retreat in Bude, Cornwall. Nestled by the beach, this wood-fired sauna offers a unique outdoor experience with breathtaking sea views through a panoramic half-moon window.

Whether you prefer solitude or the company of others, Ocean Soul Sauna accommodates your needs. Just steps from Crooklets Beach, this idyllic location comfortably hosts up to 8 people, making it perfect for intimate gatherings, families, friends, or special occasions. Embrace the tranquility and warmth of a seaside sauna for a rejuvenating experience.

This unique beachside wood sauna is an opportunity to relax and connect with the soothing ambiance of the sea.

Saunas offer a range of benefits, promoting overall well-being.

• Pain Relief: Saunas have been known to alleviate pain, providing relief for sore muscles and joints.
• Relaxation: The heat in saunas induces relaxation, helping to reduce stress and tension in both the body and mind.
• Positive Impact on Blood Pressure: Regular sauna use may contribute to a positive effect on blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health.
• Mood Enhancement: Saunas can boost mood and contribute to a sense of well-being, thanks to the release of endorphins and the overall relaxation they provide.
• Mental Health: Saunas are associated with improved mental health, offering a tranquil space for relaxation and contemplation.
• Muscle and Joint Recovery: Saunas aid in muscle recovery, promoting flexibility and easing stiffness in joints.

With over two decades of expertise, OA Surf Club stands out as one of the pioneering companies to introduce coasteering in Bude and Cornwall.

If you’re seeking a holiday adventure like no other, consider coasteering—an exhilarating activity seamlessly blending swimming, scrambling, and cliff jumping into the sea. Immerse yourself in an exploration that unveils the coastline from a unique perspective. Traverse through natural arches, venture into sea caves, navigate barnacle-covered ledges, and experience the thrill of plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the Cornish sea. Swim across inlets, uncover hidden beaches, and embark on an unforgettable journey along the stunning coastline.

Your safety is our utmost priority.

Rest easy and fully immerse yourself in the coasteering adventure, as we handle all the details for you. We provide all the specialized equipment necessary, leaving you to simply bring your swimwear, a towel, and closed-toe footwear for the sea—we’ll take care of the rest.

Wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, and any other essential gear are included to ensure you’re fully equipped for the adventure. With our experienced coasteering guides, safety is paramount. Trust in the expertise and skills of our team, allowing you to focus on enjoying every moment of your coastal exploration.

Discover Cornwall’s incredible wildlife.

Our instructors have a wealth of knowledge and will choose a thrilling and stimulating route that will challenge and excite you. We have been coasteering in Bude for over 20 years. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, and other marine life that inhabit the area, learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife-filled rock pools that you’ll encounter along the way.

We understand that each individual and group has different abilities and preferences, which is why our coasteering sessions are pitched at the perfect level to suit your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coasteering enthusiast, we’ll tailor the experience to ensure that you get the most out of your adventure.

Coasteering for groups.

If you’re looking for a group activity, then Coasteering is perfect. Whether you’re a corporate group, stag do/hen do, birthday party, scout group or just a bunch of friends, Coasteering is an unforgettable adrenaline filled experience, and will fill you with energy for a night out or refresh you from the night before!!

We can offer private sessions for any size group, this allows our guides the complete freedom to adapt a session towards your expectations.

Whether you’re a novice eager to ride your first wave or someone looking to enhance existing skills, our surfing experiences at Widemouth Bay in Bude, are designed to provide you with the essential surfing skills, knowledge, and the confidence you seek.

If you are embarking on your “learn to surf” journey or aiming to improve your abilities both are best achieved through expert guidance from skilled and experienced coaches. With the right surfing instruction and quality equipment, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can conquer the waves. The thrill of catching your first wave during your initial surfing lesson is bound to be one of the most exhilarating experiences you’ll ever have.

Nestled at the stunning surfing haven of Widemouth Bay our surf school offers an ideal setting for our lessons. We prioritize personalized attention through small group surf lessons, ensuring that you receive focused guidance. All necessary equipment is included, and each surfing lesson spans between 2 to 2.5 hours.

For those seeking a more tailored experience, we provide Private Surfing Lessons, and we are equipped to handle large group surf bookings. Contact us for further details on these customized options and let us be your guide to a memorable surfing adventure.

Parsons Pottery stands as a testament to the genuine passion and shared commitment of the husband-and-wife team, John and Rosie. Drawing from a background in production throwing, John has meticulously honed his skills over the years, becoming a master in his craft. Meanwhile, Rosie has embraced the role of painter and glazer, adding her artistic touch to their collaborative endeavours.

In 2020, embarking on a new chapter, John and Rosie relocated to the picturesque north coast of Cornwall, in setting the stage for the evolution of Parsons Pottery. Here, against the backdrop of Quinceborough Farm, at Widemouth Bay, just outside of Bude they established a dedicated workshop, marking the official founding of Parsons Pottery. This move not only signified a change in location but also a significant leap forward for their creative project.

While they persist in sharing and selling their unique creations, a delightful shift has occurred. John and Rosie now find immense joy in connecting with the local community and holidaymakers alike.

Parsons Pottery has become a hub of creativity, hosting a variety of making and painting workshops. These interactive sessions not only showcase the artistry behind their pieces but also provide an opportunity for others to immerse themselves in the craft, creating lasting memories and unique works of art.

Join Parsons Pottery, where the beauty of Cornwall’s north coast meets the artistry of John and Rosie. Whether you’re a local resident or a holidaymaker, their workshops invite you to become a part of the creative process, turning your inspiration into tangible, handcrafted masterpieces.

Pottery Painting:
Start on a creative journey at Parsons Pottery with their pottery painting sessions, designed to cater to individuals, groups, and families alike. You don’t need to be an artist to join in – sessions are crafted for everyone, regardless of artistic experience. Friendly staff are dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Select from a diverse range of pottery, including pieces skilfully hand-thrown by John himself. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a first-time creator, full instructions on how to make the most of our vibrant underglaze paints will be given. And fear not, our staff is always on hand, ready to share ideas and techniques, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.

Pottery Throwing:
Begin a pottery adventure with a throwing session, catering to both individuals and groups of 2-6 people. Each session unfolds with a detailed demonstration, paving the way for personalized one-on-one tuition. In group sessions, participants rotate, taking turns on the wheel for an inclusive experience. Individual sessions offer the opportunity to glaze and fire 2 pots, while group sessions involve the firing and glazing of one pot per person. Whether crafting solo or in a group, our pottery throwing sessions promise a blend of education, creativity, and the joy of hands-on artistry.

In 2003, David Westcott and Alice Gare assumed ownership of Welcombe Pottery. This charming establishment, originally an old smithy, under went a transformation into a pottery and gallery back in 1972.

Alice Gare
From her earliest memories, Alice has always had a passion for crafting and embellishing objects. After completing a Fine Art studies at WSCAD, Farnham, in the early 90s, she embraced a career as a full-time potter alongside her partner, David. In 2010, she delved into the world of glass crafts, and has been fortunate enough to cultivate both practices in Welcombe.

Her artistic journey involves hand building unique pieces in earthenware and porcelain, employing a variety of techniques to delve into the realms of colour, texture, and form. Alice finds immense fascination in surface decoration, crafting transfers from her own prints, and utilizing slips while incorporating pressed plants and found objects into the clay body.

The vast sea and expansive skies of the North Devon/Cornish coastline serve as constant inspiration for both her glass and ceramic creations.

David Westcott
In the early 1970s, David’s journey with clay began with a degree in ceramics, igniting a lifelong passion for this extraordinary medium. From the outset, he was captivated by its endless possibilities, and over the years, he’s delved into various clays and glazes, ultimately finding his niche in stoneware and porcelain. His focus lies in crafting pottery for everyday use, where design and functionality intertwine seamlessly.

Each piece he create embodies a commitment to simplicity of form and a tactile, ergonomic experience. Central to his practice is the art of glazing — an area that has always fascinated David. Whether formulating new glazes or refining existing ones, for David every firing is an opportunity for experimentation and discovery.

Welcombe Pottery is more than just a studio; it’s a testament to the ever-evolving nature of ceramics. As David continues to explore new shapes and glazes, he is reminded of the boundless depth and diversity of this ancient craft. One lifetime scarcely scratches the surface of its complexity.

Creative Workshops
Alice and David run workshops themselves but also invite other artists in to teach.

The Shop
Visit their studio and you’ll discover a vibrant space where creativity flourishes amid this converted old Smithy. Both Alice and David showcase their unique ceramic creations for sale, inviting you to explore their artistic journey firsthand. Step into their open studio setting and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing process of pottery-making as Alice and David work on their latest masterpieces.

Feel free to browse their collections while witnessing the magic unfold right before your eyes. In addition to their own work, they are proud to feature a dedicated guest area highlighting the diverse talents of other artists.